Part II, Chapter XIV: The Teaching of Catechism

The Teaching of Catechism

CATECHISM is most useful and necessary, not only for children but also for adults who are often ignorant of the faith. Priests, therefore, should give as much attention as possible to this part of their sacerdotal duty and should see that their flock is properly instructed. Pastors especially should look upon the teaching of catechism as one of their most important tasks.

There is, however, a common fault which priests must avoid at all costs. which consists in thinking themselves so far above the simple teaching of catechism that they make of it a lecture in theology, which no one understands. This smacks of vanity and pride and destroys whatever spiritual good their work might accomplish.

The priest who would teach catechism well should make it a point to explain the simple matter of faith as set forth in the catechism, and employ his time, not in preaching nor in long instruction, but i n questioning and instructing the children.

Naturally, teaching catechism will not demand the same type of gravity and seriousness as preaching; nevertheless the priest must preserve a certain dignity while at the same time trying to make himself one with the children. He must treat them with cordiality and gentleness, yet not give way to levity. Above all else, he must not tolerate any irreverence on their part in the church, but enjoin upon them due respect for the sanctity of the house of God.

If his youthful charges are inclined to be unruly or irreverent in any way, he should rebuke them gently at first, and then with becoming severity. Failing to see any improvement from this type of children, he should advise their parents.

Before beginning the catechism class, a short prayer should be said. The Veni Sancte Spiritus i s recommended. Then, the children should be taught to pray aloud with the teacher, asking the blessing of Christ and His holy Mother. Before the first class, a short instruction may be given to show the necessity and excellence of learning about God and His holy law.

As the sign of the cross is most important, and yet so many persons persist in making i t irreverently and carelessly, no catechism class could begin better than by insisting on the correct use of this blessed act of faith.

To make the children repeat either singly or in pairs the answers contained in the book being used, is an excellent manner of impressing upon their youthful minds the necessary truths of religion. A new subject may be broached by saying: "Today we shall take up such and such . . . ." It may be very helpful to have the children question one another. Make them speak distinctly, but do not let them talk in a babble of confusion. Do not give them too much to memorize at one time. A short instruction or moral lesson may be drawn from each one of these catechism classes.

When the Incarnation is discussed, do not use words and expressions to cause wonder or arouse curiosity, but simply explain that the little body of Jesus was formed in the Blessed Virgin Mary and His soul was made out of nothing like our own. The body and soul are united in the person of the Son of God.

Teach the children the excellence of serving Mass. See that the boys learn how to pronounce the Latin and serve at the altar in a becoming manner. Point out the holiness of this function and how privileged they are to be admitted within the sanctuary.

Little stories and anecdotes may be used with profit and serve as a fitting conclusion for any catechism class. They should, however, be prepared in advance.

Do not be content merely to teach catechism, but endeavor to make your children good sturdy Catholics. Teach them to have the love of God in their hearts and a salutary fear of breaking His commandments. Impress upon them a profound hatred of sin and a tender devotion towards Jesus Christ and His Blessed Mother, St. Joseph, their

The Teaching of Catechism 123

guardian angel and their patron saint. Urge them to go to confession and Holy Communion very often. Guide them in the ways of obedience to their parents and the civil law. Enjoin upon them charity, modesty and devotion. Infuse into their young hearts real respect for the church and the cemetery.

Preparation for First Communion is the most important event in their lives; therefore, the subject should be explained with special care. The Sacrament of Penance will have to be treated well lest their tender consciences be formed falsely. Everything which concerns Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament should be outlined clearly.

Do not make exceptions in dealing with the children, singling out certain brighter ones, but treat all alike and even go out of your way to be kind to the backward ones. Prizes may be helpful to encourage them to learn their catechism.

After catechism class is finished, a hymn may be sung and a prayer said, perhaps the Our Father, the Hail Mary, or the Creed.

Do not keep the children too long for they tire easily and lose interest in coming again. It is good to spend a little time in recreation with the children after the class.

It need hardly be added that, since morning and evening prayers are so important, the teaching of them should occupy a considerable portion of every priest's time. If the pastor is not able to discharge these duties himself, he may select some devout Catholics to assist him.

A set hour for the classes is imperative, and one that will be convenient for all. Teach the children to come to the church and take their places at the hour fixed. Then, kneel down and say a little prayer. They must understand that the church is a holy place; hence, it must not be profaned by talking and misbehavior.

While the children are in class, nothing else must be considered or talked about except the lessons for the day. Do not let them whisper among themselves; do not permit them to play or act lightly. Teach them to regard one another as brothers and sisters, not shunning this one or that one or having hard feelings towards any other child.

Teach them obedience to parents, love for God and His holy Mother, devotion to the Rosary. They should say the beads daily to obtain the favor of living and dying in the state of grace. 125-